Some good back-and-forth in these posts, though I won't wade into the debate over which kind of brake is better. And thanks for the suggestions on available bikes. I will offer this find from my own research--Bassi, a bike maker in Montreal. They don't seem widely known, but as it happens my local bike shop is one of only a couple in the US who carry them. I'm liking the look of this one, only about $100 more than the offerings from Surly, New Albion, etc. Fairly stout tubing, three bottle bosses, clearance for 45mm tires, and a handy shoulder strap option: